U.S. Raises Alarm Over Russia, China Spy Operations in Cuba

(MENAFN) US officials have sounded the alarm over what they describe as an accelerating Russian and Chinese intelligence buildup in Cuba, intensifying concerns about foreign surveillance operations in close proximity to American soil.

Intelligence assessments reported by The Wall Street Journal indicate that both Beijing and Moscow have upgraded electronic surveillance infrastructure on the island and significantly expanded their personnel there since 2023.

The facilities are reportedly positioned to intercept US military communications in Florida, including transmissions linked to US Central Command in Tampa and US Southern Command near Miami.

Assessments identified 18 known signals-intelligence sites across Cuba. China reportedly operates three, Russia two, with several believed to be jointly managed alongside Cuban authorities, while the remainder are understood to be Cuban-controlled.

Washington views the expansion as part of a broader strategy by geopolitical rivals to consolidate their presence in the Western Hemisphere. The Trump administration has cited the intelligence to justify a tougher posture toward Havana, framing Cuba as an operational base for Russian and Chinese activities near the US mainland.

Surveillance activity has also reportedly intensified around Guantanamo Bay. While Russia and China share some intelligence with Havana, officials believe both retain the bulk of collected data for their own use.

In response, the US has stepped up its own surveillance of Cuba — including drone overflights and satellite monitoring — following directives from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, whose office declined to comment.

China rejected the allegations as fabrications designed to pressure Cuba. Russia did not respond, though Moscow has publicly condemned US policy toward Havana and reaffirmed its support for the island. Some former US officials questioned whether the latest findings represent a fundamentally new threat, noting that Russian and Chinese intelligence activity in Cuba has been an acknowledged concern for years, with critics suggesting the timing may reflect the administration's push for tougher action against Havana.

MENAFN24052026000045017169ID1111160060